January 2025 at San Mateo County Libraries

January is here, and with it comes a new year full of possibilities! At San Mateo County Libraries, we’re kicking off 2025 with a fresh slate of exciting programs and activities designed to inspire, connect and spark creativity in our community.

This month, we’re embracing winter with hands-on workshops, wellness events, career explorations, our winter Cozy Up and more. Whether you’re looking to unwind, escape the rain, get creative or try something new, there’s something for everyone. Check out our Events Calendar for all the details on what we have planned!

Meet Tracy Grant, Author of The Southcott Jewels 💎

On Sunday, January 26th, at 2:00 PM, San Mateo County Libraries is thrilled to welcome Bay Area author Tracy Grant for a discussion of her 50+ works of historical romance, including her latest installment, The Southcott Jewels. Don't forget to RSVP for this in-person author talk.

Begin the New Year With the Healing Power of Meditation 🧘

The New Year is a time to create a clean slate. Join us virtually on Thursday, January 23, at 6:00 PM with Clare Vidich for this powerful workshop. Clare has been inspiring audiences to practice and learn this very simple meditation technique, which provides many benefits.

Celebrate the Lunar New Year 🐍

Celebrate the Lunar New Year with us as we welcome the Year of the Wood Snake! Enjoy a variety of activities for all ages, including storytime with author Oliver Chin, musical performances, lion dances and hands-on workshops exploring art, embroidery and illustration.

Cozy Up at the Library 🧣

Escape the cold rainy weather and join us at our warm and cozy libraries, opens a new window. Everyone is welcome to Cozy Up—it's an opportunity to slow down, warm up and practice some intentional and gentle self-care. From hot cocoa study breaks for teens, to pajama day storytimes, we're looking forward to getting cozy and comfy. Explore all the Cozy Up events happening all throughout January. 

The Draw Together Silver Series 🖍️

The Draw Together Silver Series is a five-part class and art studio designed for older adults. We will come together to participate in an artistic endeavor while promoting community and connection in a safe and inclusive space.

Intro to Adobe Series 💻

We’re starting 2025 with workshops designed to help you level up your skills in Acrobat, Illustrator, Lightroom, Photoshop and more. Whether you’re just getting started or looking to refine your craft, our Adobe classes offer something for everyone. 

Sashiko Mending 🪡

Discover the art of Sashiko Mending, a Japanese embroidery technique that combines mending with beautiful design. In this workshop, artist Lisa Solomon will guide you through techniques like patchwork and traditional patterning to give new life to your garments.

Beach Art Workshop 🏖️

Get ready to have a hands-on experience and create one-of-a-kind art. In this workshop you will learn from artist Aditi Jain to create fun beach-textured paintings. Capture your beach daydreams in a textured painting in this relaxing library setting! In this workshop, you will learn how to create textured paintings featuring a tranquil ocean scene.

Library Closures 📚

Please note these upcoming holiday closures. For a complete list of closures, visit our Events Calendar.

Tuesday, December 31, 2024: All San Mateo County Libraries and Customer Care will close early at 5:00 PM for New Year's Eve.

Wednesday, January 1, 2025: All San Mateo County Libraries and Customer Care are closed for New Year's Day.

Sunday, January 19, and Monday, January 20, 2025: All San Mateo County Libraries and Customer Care are closed for Martin Luther King, Jr. Day.